Starbucks to offer mobile ordering and payments across US in 2015

Starbucks customers in Portland are to be the first in the US to be able to order and pay for their coffee ahead of arrival and the service will be rolled out across the country in 2015, the company has announced. The move follows the introduction of a QR code-based mobile ordering service in Korea in June.

“Starbucks will introduce for the first time Mobile Order and Pay in stores within the Portland area before the end of the calendar year,” the company says. This “will enable customers to place orders in advance of their visit and pick them up at their selected Starbucks location.

“Mobile ordering will deliver convenience, frequency and speed of service and over time, become the fastest and easiest way for customers to order, pay and pick up their purchases. Starbucks is planning the launch of Mobile Order and Pay in 2015 across the United States, thus extending Starbucks leadership in the mobile commerce arena and continuing the company’s efforts to bring the most innovative customer programs first to market.”

The Starbucks loyalty program is also to be upgraded for users of mobile devices, the company adds. “My Starbucks Rewards will deliver more meaningful, relevant and personal rewards to its customers, right at their fingertips.

“Benefits include access to special events such as the upcoming Holiday Share Event, sneak previews of new products and promotions and additional opportunities to earn and redeem rewards across the Starbucks family of brands”.